I learned something interesting in a book I read recently (Peace Is a Practice by Morgan Harper Nichols–Book Review). You probably know that Benedictine monks are known for choral psalmody. But did you ever realize that in the middle of each verse there is a pause for taking a breath? This is called the media distincto.
Maybe we should apply this idea to our own lives. I don't know about you, but it seems like I am constantly rushing from one thing to another. "Multi-tasking" is the order of the day. It's not enough to do one thing well -- we have to be juggling two or three or more things at the same time. If we allow our attention to falter, even for a second, all the balls are likely to come tumbling down, causing us to feel that we've failed colossally. This isn't a good way to live. It leads to anxiety and all sorts of mental and physical symptoms of stress. It just isn't healthy.
So, what's the alternative? Slow down. Work on one task or attack one problem at a time. When you're not sure, wait. Rest a while. Pray. Learn to trust God. It won't be easy when we've become used to living on high alert, but we can practice it for one hour, one day, one season at a time.
Take a breath!
For more about slowing down and resting see:
Slow Me Down
Taking A Break
When is it time?
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